Tax credits - idiots guide for this query needed

[Monkeytrousers]

My ex is paid above the rate for tax credits

I have just started working 17 hours a week and was under the impression that I was only eligible to claim tax credits/workintg tax credits (I don't know the difference to be gonest) to pay for 2 mornings childcare because I am now single. Ex-dp says I would be entitled to them even if we were still together.

I am confused, not least becasue one of the reasons I kicked him out is becasue I thought I was trapped at home and couldn;t affored to work as his wage took us above tax credits threashold.

So is it his, mine or both that count towards help with childcare?????

Can I suggest that you give the Citizens Advice Bureau a call or nip in to see them. I used to advise for them a few years ago and they have all the info you will need and can also do a calculation to see if whose income counts, chldcare and the merits of claiming tax credit or not at all...